Your Guide to the Best Time to Visit Sikkim

As a state that’s so close to the eastern Himalayas, Sikkim not only enjoys a pleasantly cool climate but also experiences extreme cold, snowfall, and rainfall. This means, not all months are suitable to enjoy crystal-clear views of the Himalayas, especially Mt. Khangchendzonga, go on treks in its national parks, go up to the high-altitude lakes and passes, or go on bike rides.  

Read on to know the best months to travel, sightsee, and enjoy different outdoor activities.

Best Time to Visit Sikkim

Mid-March-May: Perhaps the best months to travel to Sikkim. Straight out of the winter months, the days are pleasantly warm, the skies are clear, and the whole of nature is hunky dory. The roads are open to travel to higher altitudes after the snow has melted, and you can travel to any part of the state, especially North Sikkim. Trekking trails are also open and the Goecha La trek is perfect at this time.  

June-September: The worst months to travel to Sikkim as it’s the monsoon season. Multiple landslides cause long jams on the highway connecting the airport to Sikkim, causing delays of upto 8 hours. Thunderstorms are common at this time, and there’s very less scope for travelling anywhere outdoors. However, it doesn’t rain continuously, and whenever there are bouts of sunshine, you can enjoy the outdoors; not great for sightseeing though. Workation is best during these months.

October-November: Fresh out of the monsoons, the landscape takes a visible turn during these 2 months. Verdant hills, blue skies, crisp air, and specks of wildflowers start off October. By mid-October, leaves have turned orange and brown, and you can witness the slow transition into colder weather. This is again a good time to enjoy the outdoors with treks, bike rides, cycling, paragliding, helicopter rides, and more.

December-February: The coldest months of the year. If you love winters, then this is the time to come and enjoy the cold in your warm woollies. Barbeques, bonfires, and festivals make up winters here. Let’s not forget the snow. This is a great snowfall destination and North Sikkim is utterly beautiful at this time.

Additional read: Paradise found: The best time to visit Sikkim